Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle

This film is one that I wasn’t sure we needed as the original was such a big part of my childhood. But, as more information was released about the film it gauged my interest. For example, the fact that this isn’t a direct sequel or a reboot of the original peaked my interest more and more. Dwayne Johnson did a few interviews prior to the release in which he stated that this film would pay homage to the original while also telling a fresh, new story. Well this film did just that and did it in a pretty amazing way.

The film actually picks up where we were left in the last film which is a bold move but it worked. I will be completely honest in saying that I could not get attached to these characters when they were first introduced in the story. However, as the story progresses we learn to get attached more to their avatars in the game of Jumanji. The film is great at knowing exactly what it is and knowing when to poke fun at itself and the cast of characters. I was actually quite impressed with how funny this film was.

The cast lead by Dwayne Johnson is great. As always, Dwayne and Kevin Hart have wonderful chemistry on screen and it is rounded out nicely with Jack Black. Jack Black had some of the best moments for me in the film and the comedy was used well with his character.

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle is a good time at the theater and has plenty of laughs for the family. The film does not take itself too seriously but it can seem to drag on at certain parts. Cinema Wise gives Jumanji a 3.25 out of 5.